Waterford Estate Grenache Single Vineyard 2023 - Single

Features

Description

The Waterford Estate Grenache Single Vineyard 2023 is a refined, site-specific expression of Grenache from one of the warmest and most challenging vineyard sites on Waterford Estate in Stellenbosch. The single vineyard is planted on the estates rockiest sandstone slopes, where the arid conditions naturally restrict the vines and encourage small yields of concentrated, intensely flavoured fruit.

Made from 100% Grenache, the 2023 is deliberately crafted in a lighter, elegant style rather than chasing extraction or excessive oak. The grapes are hand-harvested and destemmed without crushing, with a small portion retained as whole bunches. Fermentation lasts approximately 18 days before the wine is transferred into a combination of porcelain jars, foudre and old 500L French oak barrels for maturation.

The result is a beautifully expressive Stellenbosch Grenache combining vibrant red fruit, savoury complexity and fine tannins with an unusually long mineral finish. Tasting Notes Colour: Light ruby-red, immediately signalling the wines elegant and more delicate style. Nose: Expressive and savoury, with fresh red berries and cherries complemented by cinnamon, subtle leather and gentle spice.

The fruit remains bright and lifted, while earthy and savoury nuances add complexity. Palate: Concentrated yet elegant, with juicy red fruit and savoury cherry flavours supported by a rich, supple texture. Integrated acidity provides freshness and poise, while the 2023 shows slightly more structure than previous vintages without sacrificing Grenaches characteristic softness.

Finish: Long and refined with lingering red fruit, delicate spice and a distinctive mineral character that adds freshness and complexity. Awards & Accolades The 2023 vintage has already received strong critical recognition: 4.5 Stars Platters Wine Guide 2026 92 Points Tim Atkin MW, South Africa Special Report 2025 The wine also follows a strong track record for the Single Vineyard Grenache, with the 2022 vintage receiving 93 points from Tim Atkin, 4.5 Platter stars and Double Gold at the Gilbert & Gaillard International Awards.

Food Pairing Serve slightly cool at around 1416C. Its red-fruited, savoury profile makes it particularly versatile with roast duck, lamb, pork belly, charcuterie, grilled chicken, Mediterranean dishes and mushroom-based dishes. Technical Details Producer: Waterford Estate Vintage: 2023 Country: South Africa Region: Stellenbosch Variety: 100% Grenache Vineyard: Single vineyard Site: Rocky sandstone slopes on Waterford Estate Harvesting: Hand-harvested Whole Bunch: Approximately 4% Fermentation: Approximately 18 days Maturation: 14 months Maturation Vessels: 30% porcelain jars, 25% foudre and 45% old 500L French oak barrels (10+ years old) Alcohol: 14.01% ABV Residual Sugar: 1.43 g/L Total Acidity: 4.41 g/L pH: 3.74 Bottle Size: 750ml